Diseases of the heart and circulation are the commonest preventable cause of disability and death in the UK and elsewhere in the developed world. Heart and circulatory disorders are also rapidly overtaking communicable diseases as serious health problems in less developed countries. Speakers at this symposium will considers gaps and challenges in limiting the occurrence and severity of disorders of the heart and circulation and the extent to which health policy is supporting health professionals in efforts to help the public to remain as heart healthy as possible.